Bidfresh has published a report looking at consumer trends for 2025, highlighting cultural fusion meat dishes as a key trend.

Southern fried chicken

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Bidfresh’s three brands, Campbell Brothers (catering butchers), Direct Seafoods (nationwide fishmongers) and Oliver Kay (fresh ingredient suppliers), have identified health as the most important factor for over a third of consumers (34%) when choosing food, followed by price (20%) and the environment (16%).

One of the key trends identified by Bidfresh was flavours less travelled used with fresh meat. Bidfresh said the trend celebrated the “richness of diverse flavours”. The report highlighted the appeal of cultural fusion in meat dishes, encouraging businesses to “look further afield” for inspiration from other cultures, ingredients, spices, and cooking techniques.

Bidfresh said the top three cuisines were:

  • Argentinian – Argentinian cuisine, its beef dishes in particular, is celebrated globally for its exceptional flavour, and more than half (53%) were interested in trying this cuisine. Asado, the national dish of Argentina, is a traditional cooking method where beef is barbequed low and slow. Other meats such as pork, lamb and chicken can also be prepared asado.
  • Southern States – From the Deep South of the USA (Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida). Some of the cuisines associated with these states are showing high and growing levels of appeal, particularly Creole, Cajun and Soul Food, where fried chicken and sausage feature.
  • Portuguese – 52% of consumers are interested in trying Portuguese cuisine, which features meat dishes made with pork and chicken.

Other trends identified in the report included healthy eating, a focus on Scottish, Welsh and Irish cuisine, and sustainability.

Jodie Gamson, senior marketing manager for Bidfresh said: “We’re very excited to launch our 2025 ‘The Juice’ fresh trends report highlighting the dynamic shift in consumer preferences.

“This year, it’s clear to see that consumers are looking for more than just great-tasting food, they want food that nourishes both body and soul, while also being fully conscious of their impact on the environment.

“The announcement of last year’s Autumn Budget was a massive hit to the industry, including our British farmers, leaving questions as to whether consumers will still be eating out of home. However, we’re determined to boost the confidence of our customers, helping chefs and caterers navigate through this challenging time.

“Using this year’s report, we hope to help operators attract consumers with healthier and more sustainable dishes that showcase the fresh, high-quality ingredients Campbell Brothers, Direct Seafoods and Oliver Kay each has to offer.”

The full report can be accessed here.